Malaysia probes pig 'growth enhancer' claims

The Health Ministry in Malaysia will investigate claims that pig farmers are using unapproved growth enhancer.

Minister Datuk Liow Tiong Lai says the pig farmers should learn from their experience and avoid a repeat of the beta-agonist incident in which the consumers boycotted them for using the banned substance in pig feed. He said he has not received any report on the claims but stressed that the ministry will probe the matter.

The claims that some pig farmers in the country are using "imitation" growth enhancer ractopamine produced in China came from a veterinarian. Liow said the action of these pig farmers could affect the whole pig farming industry, including the likelihood of another boycott of pork by consumer.

"We should learn from our mistake and not to repeat it. The Health Ministry will definitely investigate the matter," he said.